Activities To Do in Korea During Rainy and Snowy Days
Activities To Do in Korea During Rainy and Snowy Days
Korea Files
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Don't let the weather dampen your Korean adventure! Rainy (summer) and snowy (winter) days offer a perfect opportunity to explore unique indoor experiences across the country. From cultural treasures to modern attractions, Korea has plenty to keep you entertained and cozy. This guide covers:
✅ 8 Museums and Galleries to Visit for FREE
✅ 6 Discounted Themed Museums
✅ 4 Spa Houses / Jjimjilbang
✅ 10 Indoor Shopping Malls
✅ 4 Traditional Tea Houses
✅ 10+ Themed Cafés
✅ 4 Indoor Amusement Parks & Botanical Gardens
✅ 10+ Discounted Indoor Activities and Special Classes
✅ 6 Cultural & Themed Theatrical Performances
✅ 6 Discounted Winter Tours & Activities
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Discounted Tours & Activities
This guide includes links where you can directly book some activities via Klook. Get up to 5% OFF (max of 5x use) when you use my discount code: KOREAFILESKLOOK
This promo code can also be used for Klook activities in other countries aside from Korea.
Whether it's rain or snow, there's no shortage of unique indoor activities to keep you entertained and comfortable while exploring the best of Korea! Here are some of them:
1. Visit Museums and Galleries
FREE ENTRANCE
Korea boasts a plethora of museums and galleries perfect for a rainy or snowy day. Here are some of the museums that you can easily visit in Seoul. Most of these museums offer FREE entrance:
National Museum of Korea (국립중앙박물관)
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The National Museum of Korea holds a vast collection of over 420,000 artifacts spanning ancient to modern times, covering art and culture extensively. Visitors can explore the Children's Museum for educational programs on the nation's history. Outside, there are pagodas and large stone artworks to discover, complementing the indoor galleries showcasing national and international pieces. You can also find the National Hangeul Museum in the same complex.
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The War Memorial of Korea (전쟁기념관)
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Established on 1989, this monumental site commemorates the Korean War and educates on national history. It aims to prevent war and foster peaceful reunification. It's a testament to Korea’s journey through nation-building, industrialization, and democratization.
With over 33,000 artifacts, including 10,000 on display, the memorial features six indoor halls and an outdoor exhibition of large-scale weapons. Visitors can engage in 20 educational programs and enjoy cultural events like military music performances and drawing contests. Look out for 'Mudori,' the character symbolizing protection and peace.
And don't forget to enjoy the view of N Seoul Tower from the memorial!
📍29, Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul (서울특별시 용산구 이태원로 29)
🚇 Noksapyeong Station, Exit 1 or Samgakji Station, Exit 11/12
🕰️ 09:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Last admission 1 hr before closing, closed Mondays)
🎟️ Free entry (special exhibitions may have separate fees)
🅿️ Parking available
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National Museum of Korean Contemporary History
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Opened on December 26, 2012, the National Museum of Korean Contemporary History showcases Korea's journey from the opening of Incheon Port to present times. It features four main exhibition halls: Prelude to the Republic of Korea, Foundation of the Republic of Korea, Development of the Republic of Korea, and Modernization of South Korea. The museum also offers hands-on programs for children at the Korean History Dream Village. Visitors can enjoy special exhibitions and various educational and cultural programs.
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Donuimun Museum Village (돈의문박물관마을)
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Donuimun Museum Village is a unique historical and cultural space in Seoul's city center. It preserves the legacy of Saemunan Village, the first neighborhood within the western gate of Hanyangdoseong (Seoul City Wall). The village has been carefully remodeled to maintain its original structures, including modern buildings and urban-style hanoks, while integrating broad yards where houses were torn down. Visitors can enjoy a "100 Years of Seoul" experience with interactive exhibits, performances, and marketplaces that celebrate Seoul's past and present
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National Palace Museum of Korea
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The National Palace Museum of Korea preserves the culture of the Joseon royal and Korean imperial court by collecting and exhibiting related artifacts. Permanent and special exhibitions showcase diverse subjects with engaging displays. The museum offers various learning programs and cultural events.
Located near the Gyeongbokgung Palace in downtown Seoul, the museum provides a relaxing and refreshing experience for visitors.
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The National Folk Museum of Korea
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Located in central Seoul, the National Folk Museum of Korea educates visitors on Korean life from past to present. It investigates, researches, and collects artifacts related to Korean daily life.
The museum has three permanent exhibition halls and an open-air exhibition area. Exhibitions cover Korean traditional daily life, annual customs, and life passages. Special exhibitions are held four times a year to deepen understanding of Korean folkways.
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Seoul City Wall Museum (한양도성박물관)
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The Seoul City Wall, built in 1396, protected the capital for over 600 years and remains largely intact today alongside the modern city. The Seoul City Wall Museum, located in Heungjinjimun Park, showcases its history from the Joseon dynasty to present, featuring permanent and special exhibitions, an information center, and a study room. Renovated in 2016, the museum offers visitors a cultural journey through 600 years of history and the enduring significance of this heritage site.
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Seoul Museum of History (서울역사박물관)
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The Seoul Museum of History, located in the heart of the city, offers a deep dive into Seoul's past from the Joseon Dynasty to modern times. Its exhibitions feature artifacts, models, and multimedia displays that vividly narrate the city's development. Perfect for first-time visitors wanting to understand Seoul's rich heritage!
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Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art (삼성미술관 리움)
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Leeum, Samsung Museum of Art in Seoul features both traditional and modern artworks by Korean and international artists. Designed by renowned architects Mario Botta, Jean Nouvel, and Rem Koolhaas, the museum itself is an architectural marvel. Museum 1 showcases traditional Korean art, including calligraphy, ceramics, and metal craftwork, while Museum 2 exhibits modern and contemporary art. Visitors can enjoy free English tours on weekends and audio guides available at the ticket office.
You may enter without reservation after getting paper tickets at the information desk in the lobby.
Please note that on-site tickets may require a wait due to capacity regulations so it's recommended to reserve your slot online.
The parking lot is not large enough. We recommend using public transportation.
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DISCOUNTED ENTRANCE FREE (Seoul + Busan + Suwon)
2. Relax in a Jjimjilbang or Spa
Experience the traditional Korean bathhouse, or jjimjilbang. These large, gender-segregated public baths have various saunas, pools, and relaxation areas. Here are some of them:
Myeongdong Sauna GoldenSauna (명동 사우나 황금사우나 )
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Sparex Dongdaemun (스페렉스)
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Hongdae 24-hour Bulgama Sauna (홍대24시불가마사우나 )
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3. Shop in Malls or Watch Movies
Stay dry and warm while indulging in some retail therapy. COEX Mall in Gangnam, one of Asia’s largest underground shopping malls, offers everything from high-end fashion to quirky Korean souvenirs, along with numerous dining options.
Starfield Coex Mall (스타필드 코엑스몰)
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Starfield COEX Mall is one of the most famous shopping centers in Seoul which carries both domestic brands and international brands, as well as designer and luxury brands. Here you can find variety of items from clothing, to accessories, and it also has a lot of dining options with many restaurants and coffee shops. The famous Starfield Library (별마당도서관) is located in the center of the Starfield COEX Mall. It is an open public space you can freely sit down and read some books.
Kdramas filmed here:
Record of Youth (2020)
Lovestruck in the City (2020-2021)
Kkondae Intern (2020)
The Beauty Inside (2018)
Personal Taste (2010)
Sweet Spy (2005-2006)
Lovers in Paris (2004)
Beautiful Days (2001)
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Byeolmadang Library Starfield Suwon (별마당도서관 스타필드 수원점)
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Byeolmadang Library at Starfield Suwon, opened in January 2024, is an expansive and visually stunning space that spans three floors. Located in Gyeonggi Province, this library is famous for its towering bookshelves and Instagram-worthy interior. It's a must-visit for book lovers and social media enthusiasts alike. The library also features over 10,000 vinyl records and trendy cafes, making it a unique cultural hotspot.
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The Hyundai Seoul (더현대 서울)
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Shop and dine at The Hyundai Seoul, a modern and upscale mall that blends shopping with unique cultural experiences.
This served as the Queen Department Store in the hit Kdrama "Queen of Tears"
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Gotomall Underground Shopping Mall
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GOTO Mall beneath Gangnam Terminal Subway Station offers an extensive array of fashion, accessories, and more at budget-friendly prices. Dive into this underground shopping haven for a memorable retail experience.
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AK PLAZA Hongdae
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AK& Mall, created by the AK Plaza department store group, targets younger shoppers with 16 floors. The first five floors offer fashion, cosmetics, daily essentials, and dining options, while from the sixth floor upwards, it houses the Holiday Inn Express Seoul Hongdae. The mall’s design emphasizes spaciousness with open central areas. Despite its size, AK& Mall boasts a variety of brands like SPAO, Muji, Levi’s, and Nike.
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Annyeong Insadong
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Anyoung Insadong is a vibrant cultural and entertainment shopping complex. It offers a modern atmosphere with a diverse range of brands and attractions. It features numerous galleries, cafes, and shops, making it a perfect destination for visitors seeking dining and entertainment options.
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LOTTE WORLD MALL
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Lotte World Shopping Mall offers a range of attractions and entertainment options, such as Lotte World, Lotte World Folk Museum, an indoor ice rink, swimming pool, bowling alley, and sports center. Additionally, visitors can enjoy shopping at the department store and Lotte Mart, making it a one-stop destination for leisure and shopping.
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Shinsegae Department Store Main Store
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Shinsegae Department Store, originally opened in 1960 on the site of Korea's first department store from the 1930s, underwent renovation in 2007 to become a luxury hall. It now features a wide range of brands, from top international luxury names to emerging designers. The store includes Trinity Gardens and art halls, creating a unique cultural and shopping experience.
Shinsegae Duty Free, the first of its kind by Shinsegae Group, stands in Myeongdong, a hub of Korean culture and leisure. Close to Namdaemun Market and N Seoul Tower, it offers a blend of shopping and cultural exploration, now serving as a tranquil urban oasis.
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DOOTA Mall (두타몰)
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DOOTA Mall in Dongdaemun is a massive 7-story shopping center known for its modern design and over a hundred retailers. It features a mix of clothes shops, sports stores, and select shops, catering to various shopping needs. It even has a No Brand store for your grocery shopping.
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Migliore (밀리오레)
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Migliore is one of the oldest shopping malls in Dongdaemun, offering a mix of retail and wholesale items at low prices. Popular for its women's fashion, you can find a variety of designs and styles with shirts and sweaters starting at 10,000 KRW. Sportswear and athleisure items are also available, with sets priced as low as 15,000 KRW.
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CGV Hongdae
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Watch new movie releases at CGV Korea, one of the largest multiplex cinema chain in the country. CGV in Hongdae has a manned ticket counter as well as ticket machines with a touch panel on them. Even if you don't speak Korean, you'll be able to secure your seats. Note however that if you watch a Korean movie, don't expect it to have English subtitles.
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4. Explore Traditional Tea Houses or Try Tea Culture Experience
Cozy up in one of Korea's traditional tea houses. Insadong in Seoul has charming spots where you can sip on traditional teas and enjoy Korean sweets, all while soaking in the serene ambiance. Here are some of them.
Banjjak Banjjak Binnaneun (반짝반짝빛나는)
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A Traditional Beverages specialty restaurant located in Insa-dong, Seoul. A store selling hand-crafted Korean traditional tea. The most famous menu is green plum tea.
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Sooyeon Sanbang (수연산방)
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Sooyeon Sanbang is a traditional tea house in Seongbuk-dong, originally built during the Japanese colonial period. Once the hanok of literary figure Lee Taejun, it is now run by his granddaughter. The tea house offers traditional teas like daechucha (jujube tea) and ssanghwacha (medicinal herb tea), along with snacks such as injeolmi (bean-powder-coated rice cake). Its name, meaning "a house where literati gather in the mountains," reflects its serene and cultural ambiance
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Tteuran Tea House (뜨란 찻집)
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Tteuran Tea House is a serene traditional Korean teahouse in Ikseon-dong, Seoul. Hidden away from the busy streets, it offers a tranquil escape with a charming interior and a beautiful inner courtyard garden. Visitors can enjoy a variety of teas, exploring different flavors and aromas.
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Shin Old Teahouse (신올드찻집)
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Shin Old Teahouse, tucked away in Insadong's backstreets, offers a nostalgic escape with its preserved old architecture. Visitors can enjoy a charming courtyard garden and the cozy ambiance of this traditional teahouse. Popular options include aromatic cinnamon tea and sweet rice cakes.
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You can also try a Korean Team Culture Experience Class in Seoul ⬇️
5. Indoor Amusement Parks
Lotte World is Seoul's largest indoor amusement park, providing endless fun regardless of the weather outside. Enjoy thrilling rides, ice skating, and various performances, all under one roof. It also has an outdoor area but in case of rain, you can just stay in its indoor premises.
Lotte World (롯데월드)
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Lotte World is an inclusive recreational space operated that offers a variety of attractions and recreational activities that both kids and adults will surely enjoy. Lotte World is divided into different areas such as the Lotte World Adventure, lakeside Magic Island, a shopping mall, folk museum, ice rink, hotel, and many more. It is a perfect place if you want you have fun with the rides, shop to your heart’s contents, appreciate Korea’s culture and rest.
It’s flagship amusement park – Lotte World Adventure, is Korea’s largest indoor amusement park. It has thrilling rides that both kids and adults will enjoy. There are also amazing parades and performances to entertain its visitors. You can also have a taste of variety of food around the world inside the park.
You can make an early reservation of your tickets for the Lotte World Adventure and Lotte World Tower (Seoul Sky) via Klook app. Get up to 5% off when you use the promo code: KOREAFILESKLOOK
Kdramas filmed here:
Strong Girl Nam-soon (2023)
King the Land (2023)
See You In My 19th Life (2023)
Taxi Driver 2 (2023)
Shooting Stars (2022)
Business Proposal (2022)
Our Beloved Summer (2021-22)
True Beauty (2020-21)
Love Alarm (2019)
Perfume (2019)
The Last Empress (2018-19)
Clean With Passion For Now (2018-19)
Familiar Wife (2018)
Three Colors of Fantasies I (2017)
Hyde, Jekyll & I (2015)
The Greatest Love (2011)
Athena: Goddess of War (2010-11)
Stairway to Heaven (2004)
All About Eve (2000)
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You can make an early reservation of your tickets for the Lotte World Adventure via Klook app. Make sure to use my promo code for discounts.
Another indoor place to visit in Seoul is the Zoolung Indoor Animal theme park. Tickets can also be booked online ⬇️
Zoolung Zoolung
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Zoolung Zoolung in Times Square Mall, Seoul, is an interactive indoor zoo featuring over 50 species from the Amazon and Africa. It offers a unique experience with animals through themed exhibits and activities suitable for all ages. The zoo includes a Pirate Ship concept café with a three-story playground, making it a fun and educational destination for families.
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6. Visit Themed Cafes
Korea is famous for its unique themed cafes. Whether it's a cat cafe, book cafe, luxury cafe, or even a raccoon cafe, there's something for everyone. Spend your day sipping coffee and enjoying the quirky atmosphere. Here are some of the many themed cafes in Korea:
Meerkat Friends (Hongdae)
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Meerkat Friends in Hongdae is a unique animal cafe where visitors can interact with a variety of animals, including meerkats, raccoons, and an Arctic fox. Located in the lively Hongdae district of Seoul, the cafe is known for its friendly and therapeutic atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy drinks while playing with the animals, who are well-cared for and supervised by staff.
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Ddong Café (Insadong)
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Ddong Café in Insadong, Seoul, is a whimsical destination for anyone seeking a unique experience. This "poop-themed" café features playful decor with poo-shaped pillows, toilet bowl mugs, and even poo-shaped ice cream and waffles. It offers a quirky atmosphere perfect for fun photos and laughs with friends or family.
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Rain Report (레인리포트)
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Rain Report is features an artificial lake, glass waterfalls, and simulated rain, creating a serene atmosphere for relaxation. Additionally, they offer unique croissants inspired by weather and nature, available in different flavors.
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DIOR Seongsu (디올 성수)
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The newly constructed Dior building, featuring a metal mesh facade, shifts from transparency to opacity throughout the day, revealing a stunning boutique. Inside, the space merges Korean and French cultures with works by Korean designers Kwangho Lee and Jeonghwa Seo, plus digital art by D’strict. Surrounded by Asian and European plants, it’s a lush, colorful spot that Seoul travelers must visit.
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Soha Salt Pond
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Soha Salt Pond is a charming café in Seoul, famous for its variety of salt bread, from classic original to truffle squid ink and pollock roe.
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Amoene Cafe
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Amoene Cafe, located in Ganghwa-gun, Incheon, offers a whimsical experience with its unique upside-down house theme. Known for its gravity-defying architecture and quirky interior, this cafe provides a fun and surreal ambiance for visitors.
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Café Gaeppul (개뿔)
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Visit this cafe and museum in Ihwa Mural Village where admission includes a drink and access to mini-museums showcasing Locks, Pottery, and Kitchens (especially renowned for its Lock Museum). The owner has spent decades curating Korean artifacts for this unique space. Enjoy outdoor seating on observation decks with stunning views of Seoul’s skyline. It's also convenient for restroom breaks, which are included with admission, as village facilities can be closed.
Kdramas filmed here:
Undercover (2021)
Encounter (2018-19)
Cinderella and Four Knights (2016)
Sensory Couple (2015)
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Hauke (하우크)
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Located atop a high hill in Naksan Park, Cafe Hauk offers a serene ambiance amidst its white-toned interior. Its terrace provides a panoramic view of Seoul, perfect for enjoying evenings with good weather. Nearby Ihwa-dong Mural Village adds to its charm. The cafe, spacious and comfortable with unique decor, awaits visitors seeking relaxation within Seoul's bustling cityscape.
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Savage Garden (새비지가든)
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Nestled in bustling city centers, this hidden gem is a botanical garden cafe offering delightful vegan drinks and desserts. On the first floor, relax amidst indoor ponds and hanging vines during your coffee break. Upstairs, immerse yourself in a plant biology-themed environment.
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943 King's Cross (Hongdae)
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943 King's Cross in Hongdae is a Harry Potter-themed café that transports visitors into the magical world of Hogwarts. Located in the vibrant Hongdae district, it's perfect for fans and casual visitors alike. The café features intricately designed interiors, including a Great Hall and potion-themed drinks.
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7. Take a Cooking Class
Why not learn to cook some delicious Korean dishes? Many cooking schools in Seoul and Busan offer classes where you can learn to make traditional Korean foods like kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap. It's a fun and tasty way to spend a rainy or snowy day!
8. Watch Theater Performances
Catch a traditional Korean performances or the latest musical in Korea which you can easily book online.
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For other musical performances that you can watch in Korea, you can directly book your tickets using the websites below. They are foreigner-friendly and accept foreign cards for payment. Book your ticket online and redeem it at the venue.
Interpark Global - Buy tickets for K-pop concerts, musicals, sports and more.
www.globalinterpark.com
I made a more detailed guideline on watching musicals in Korea in this free guide ⬇️
9. Discover Indoor Botanical Gardens
Visit indoor botanical gardens like the Seoul Botanic Park and Suwon Irwol Botanic Garden, where you can enjoy lush greenery and exotic plants in a controlled, warm environment, making it an ideal escape from the cold or rain.
Seoul Botanic Park (서울식물원)
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Seoul Botanic Park (서울식물원) is a premier urban botanical garden in Gangseo-gu, Seoul. It combines indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring a greenhouse, themed gardens, and a lake. The park showcases over 3,100 species of plants, making it a haven for nature lovers and families. It's also a popular spot for picnics, educational programs, and seasonal festivals .
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Suwon Arboretum/Irwol Botanic Garden (일월수목원)
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Arboretum Irwol, Suwon City’s ecological landmark, opened in May 2023. This urban arboretum features 429,618 plants across 2,106 species and includes 16 different garden types, such as Dasan Garden and Conifer Garden. Located within Irwol Park, it’s also known as a filming spot for the drama “Queen of Tears.” It’s a must-visit for plant enthusiasts and drama fans alike.
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10. Experience Winter Tours & Activities
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11. Take 1-day Special Classes
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Notes:
✅ This activity guide will always be for FREE! But you can support me and my work by:
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